Salam.lifeSalam.life
BestNewFollowingCharity
BestNewFollowingCharity
© 2026 Salam.life
2 months ago

How can I kindly tell a classmate they have body odour?

Assalamu alaykum - I go to morning class and for about four months a female classmate who sits beside me has had a strong smell. We're not close, more like people who say hi and bye; we've known each other since middle school though. I'm literally writing this in the bathroom right now because the smell was so strong I needed air. I've noticed others' reactions too and it looks uncomfortable. I don't gossip, but watching people's expressions is upsetting. She's such a lively, helpful person with a good heart and she'd help anyone who asks. I really don't want to embarrass her. This is our last year of high school and I might not see her in college, so I want to be kind and honest. I'm not confrontational, and this bothers me, but maybe she doesn't have people around who would tell her these things. I want to assume the best of people. How can I bring it up gently so I don't hurt her feelings? I'd prefer to say it in private, respectfully, and maybe offer help if she needs it. Should I mention it in passing after class, or wait for a quiet moment? Any advice on words to use or what to avoid would be really appreciated. Update: I couldn't tell her today - she left after class and I had another period. I'm trying to build the courage to speak to her tomorrow.

+164

Comments

Share your perspective with the community.

4comments
2 months ago

Totally get the nerves. I’d wait for a quiet moment and keep it private. Don’t mention others' reactions - focus on care: “I hope this isn’t awkward, but I care and thought you’d want to know.” Short and empathetic does wonders.

+17
2 months ago

I would've been so grateful if someone told me. Maybe offer a small thing like a mint or deodorant casually: “Hey I keep spare deodorant in my bag, want one?” Makes it less awkward. Say it quietly and kindly, you'll do fine.

+8
2 months ago

You sound so thoughtful. If you freeze, send a short note instead: it can be kinder for both. Or practise one sentence beforehand. Whatever you choose, your tone matters more than the words. Proud of you for handling this gently.

+8
2 months ago

As-salamu alaykum - I'd whisper to her privately after class, something like, “Hey, can I tell you something kind? I noticed a smell sometimes and I thought you'd want to know. I figured you’d want me to tell you.” Gentle, short, no drama. Good luck, you’re kind for caring.

+7
By platform rules, comments are available only to users with the same gender as the post author.

Log in to leave a comment

Best posts

40m ago

As someone learning about Islam, I'm curious about the deeper meaning of Ramadan beyond the fasting schedule.

+19
1d ago

Seeking ideas to support my husband during Ramadan (as a non-Muslim spouse)

+214
🌙

Welcome to the Salam.life!

🌐

AI translation of posts and comments into 30+ languages

👥

Separate feeds for Brothers and Sisters plus haram filter

💚

Charity projects from trusted Islamic foundations

1d ago

My First Ramadan as Someone New to Islam

+219
1d ago

A question about Islam from someone exploring faith

+214
1d ago

Seeking ideas to support my husband during Ramadan (as a non-Muslim spouse)

+258
1d ago

New Muslim Here: Feeling Lonely During Ramadan

+232
1d ago

My First Ramadan Experience

+188
14h ago

Ramadan and my mental energy

+70
1d ago

Hamas condemns Israeli strike on Lebanon refugee camp

Hamas condemns Israeli strike on Lebanon refugee camp
+156
2d ago

Iftar for the families of the defenders of the Fatherland in Dagestan

Iftar for the families of the defenders of the Fatherland in Dagestan
+372
15m ago

A Vision in Red: A Dream of Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ

+3
1d ago

Is it okay to change at the mosque?

+199
1d ago

UAE and Bahrain send 100 tonnes of aid to Gaza for Ramadan relief

UAE and Bahrain send 100 tonnes of aid to Gaza for Ramadan relief
+151
2d ago

My First Ramadan Experience

+356
2d ago

UAE Minister Stresses Need for Dignified Solution in Gaza Despite Progress

UAE Minister Stresses Need for Dignified Solution in Gaza Despite Progress
+290
1d ago

New Muslim Here: Feeling Lonely During Ramadan

+206
1d ago

UN Report Details Shocking Abuse in Global Scam Trafficking

UN Report Details Shocking Abuse in Global Scam Trafficking
+228
2d ago

Was the one you prayed to marry the one you ended up with?

+294
2d ago

When Ramadan Gets Too Heavy: My Struggle with Anxiety and Depression

+288
1d ago

My First Ramadan Experience

+177
🌙

Welcome to the Salam.life!

🌐

AI translation of posts and comments into 30+ languages

👥

Separate feeds for Brothers and Sisters plus haram filter

💚

Charity projects from trusted Islamic foundations